BACKGROUNDSouthern Mindanao possesses the highest mountain in the Philippines, Mt. Apo - which covers North Cotabato and the Davao provinces. This towering presence is a natural sanctuary that is home to the Phiippine Eagle. The major centers are Davao City and General Santos City. Aside from Mt. Apo, another famous destination is Lake Holon - said to the 'cleanest water in the country' in South Cotabato's Mt. Parker. A trip to this mountain would also take you to the scenic town of Lake Sebu, the "summer capital" of the region. Numerous sidetrip possibilities include Samal Island, the beaches in Sarangani province, and countless waterfalls and caves. Mt. Matutum - set in the pineapple plantations of Tupi, South Cotabato - is also a favorite climb.

COVERAGE UPDATESThe several other trails of Mt. Apo are a priority to be covered; Mt. Candalaga's reputed beauty is something that we wish to share also, as soon as we have information. Mt. Piapayungan, the highest 'unclimbable' mountain in the Philippines, is listed under the 'Closed mountains status bulletin' of PinoyMountaineer. Hopefully, as correspondence with mountaineering groups in Southern Mindanao increases and as the situation in some parts improve, we will have more mountain destinations here.

i enjoyed being there in mount apo..its really a good place for meditation..i spent my holy week there and it was really a memorable moment being there..i just want to thanks to thE DIGOS ACTIVE MOUNTAINEERS for their efforts and service given to all participants..

About the Blog

The Lonely Planet-recommended web portal for hiking in the Philippines, PinoyMountaineer has the most comprehensive list of guides for mountains and outdoor destinations in the country, as well as bulletins to keep you updated with the local mountaineering scene. This blog is authored by Gideon Lasco, avid mountaineer and medical doctor, and was established in 2007 with the help of Ivan Henares of the award-winning travel blog Ivan About Town.